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Communion Ceremony in Church

First Holy Communion & First Reconciliation

First Holy Communion

Preparing for First Holy Communion or First Eucharist is a very special time for your child.  Our sacramental preparation is intended to be a family faith formation process and is designed to take place “in the midst of the community of the faithful.”  While Catechists provide religious instruction, this process goes beyond the classroom and involves parent participation.  It includes parent formation sessions, family faith formation sessions, liturgical celebrations, and a home study component for parents and children to learn and grow together.

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To prepare for the reception of Eucharist for the first time, we ask that each child has had one-year prior of faith formation either in the parish Faith Formation Program or St. Martin Catholic School. A family representative must attend all parent orientation/education meetings. Families must attend rehearsals, retreats, and parish celebrations that may be part of the preparation.

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The preparation for Eucharist culminates with the celebration of your child receiving Eucharist with the parish community for the first time, typically during the month of May. For more information please contact Ed Ibarra in the Faith Formation Office at eibarra@stmartin.org or 408-294-8943 x321

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First Reconciliation

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The Sacrament of Reconciliation is known by many names including the Sacrament of Confession or Sacrament of Penance. No matter the name, the Sacrament focuses on our need to be healed so that we can experience a restored relationship with God and our neighbor.

  • Communal Reconciliation Services are celebrated during Advent and Lent each year.

  • Individual reconciliation is available each Saturday at 4:00 p.m. or by appointment.

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Preparation for First Reconciliation is required as part of preparation for First Eucharist.

Children are prepared to celebrate this sacrament before they celebrate their First Eucharist.  Parents assist in the sacramental preparation of their children and are requested to attend family sessions which prepare them for this purpose. Families wishing to participate in our Parish Sacramental Preparation Process are expected to fulfill the following requirements:

  • A family representative must attend all parent orientation /education meetings.

  • Families must attend rehearsals, retreats, and parish celebrations for the Sacraments.​​​

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